vSerial Port Snoop Setup Menu

Note: This option is disabled in partitioned systems.

This menu can be used to set up serial port snooping, in which the user can configure serial port 1 as a ″catch-all″ reset device.

From the service processor main menu, select option 1, service processor setup menu, then select option 8 (Serial Port Snoop Setup Menu).

SERIAL PORT SNOOP SETUP MENU

1.System reset string: Currently Unassigned

2.Snoop Serial Port: Currently Unassigned

98. Return to Previous Menu

1>

Use the Snoop Serial Port option to select the serial port to snoop.

Note: Only serial port 1 is supported.

Use the system reset string option to enter the system reset string, which resets the machine when it is detected on the main console on Serial Port 1.

After serial port snooping is correctly configured, at any point after the system is booted to AIX, whenever the reset string is typed on the main console, the system uses the service processor reboot policy to restart.

Because pressing Enter after the reset string is not required, make sure that the string is not common or trivial. A mixed-case string is recommended.

vScan Log Dump Policy

A scan dump is the collection of chip data that the service processor gathers after a system malfunction, such as a checkstop or hang. The scan dump data may contain chip scan rings, chip trace arrays, and SCOM contents.

The scan dump data are stored in the system control store. The size of the scan dump area is approximately 4 MB.

During the scan log dump, A8xx (in the range A810 to A8FF) displays in the operator panel. The xx characters will change as the scan log dump progresses. If the xx characters do not change after several minutes, the service processor is hung and must be reset.

When the scan log dump is complete, depending on how the reboot policy is set, the system will either:

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IBM pSeries690 manual Serial Port Snoop Setup Menu, Scan Log Dump Policy

pSeries690 specifications

The IBM pSeries690, also known as the IBM eServer p690, is a high-performance server within IBM's line of Power Systems, designed primarily for enterprise-level workloads. Launched in the early 2000s, it distinguished itself as one of IBM's flagship offerings, aimed at delivering exceptional scalability, reliability, and processing power.

At the heart of the pSeries690 is the IBM POWER4 processor, a revolutionary architecture that significantly enhanced processing capabilities. The system supports multiple processor configurations, allowing businesses to customize performance based on their specific applications. Each pSeries690 can be configured with up to 32 POWER4 processors, providing a maximum processing power that is well-suited for demanding enterprise applications, complex databases, and large-scale transaction processing.

One of the standout features of the pSeries690 is its ability to handle massive amounts of memory — up to 1TB of total RAM. This is particularly advantageous for businesses that run memory-intensive applications or require high availability for critical tasks. The server’s advanced memory architecture contributes to faster data access and improved overall system performance.

Additionally, the IBM pSeries690 employs the innovative AIX operating system, which is tailored for high performance and reliability. AIX comes equipped with features such as dynamic logical partitioning (LPAR), allowing resources to be allocated flexibly and efficiently across different workloads. This technology supports virtualization, enabling multiple operating environments to run concurrently on a single physical server, optimizing resource utilization.

The pSeries690 also includes robust fault tolerance and reliability features. Redundant components, hot-swappable parts, and advanced error detection mechanisms ensure that the system remains operational even in the event of hardware failures. This reliability is crucial for mission-critical applications where downtime can lead to substantial financial losses.

Networking capabilities of the pSeries690 are enhanced by support for high-speed connections, including Gigabit Ethernet and the ability to integrate with various network topologies. This versatility facilitates seamless connectivity in complex IT environments.

In conclusion, the IBM pSeries690 remains a powerful and reliable choice for enterprises seeking to manage and optimize their most demanding workloads. Its combination of cutting-edge processing capabilities, expansive memory support, and robust virtualization features makes it a significant player in the realm of enterprise computing. As businesses continue to evolve, the core strengths of the pSeries690, especially in terms of scalability and reliability, ensure that it continues to meet the needs of demanding applications.